Molecular Mechanisms Affecting Development of Animal Fibers and Some Studies on Goats

Abstract

Natural fibers are of two types as vegetable and animal origin. Animal fibers have contributed to the development of the economic structures of the countries and the continuation of their traditions since ancient times and continue to do so. Various studies have shown that the properties of the fiber produced by the hair follicle are of great importance in determining fiber quality and quantity. Hair follicles have been developed in an environment where various molecular signals are effective. In this context, the investigation of molecular mechanisms affecting hair follicle development has come into prominence and it is seen that it has become the focus of studies. In this review, it has been tried to explain the importance of animal fibers and the molecular mechanisms affecting hair follicle morphogenesis and cycle by providing some examples from the studies on two goat breeds, Angora goat and cashmere goat, which are valuable in terms of animal fiber, leading to provide a preliminary information to the studies which has become the focus of today.